Latest News in Chicago, IL

Judge Rules Feds Can't Pepper-Spray, Tear-Gas Journalists After Block Club Chicago And Others Sue

A federal judge ruled that federal agents cannot use riot control weapons like tear gas and pepper spray against journalists and peaceful protesters in Chicago. The ruling follows a lawsuit from Block Club Chicago and others, triggered by incidents involving federal agents targeting journalists during protests outside the Broadview ICE detention facility. U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis emphasized the protection of First Amendment rights for the press and public.

National Guard Arrives In Broadview, Expected Outside Federal Court Friday

Texas National Guard troops began patrols outside an ICE facility in Broadview, Chicago, following protests against immigration enforcement. Local leaders, including Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, opposed the deployment, which the state has challenged in court as unlawful. Federal authorities have also arranged for National Guard support outside the Dirksen federal courthouse amid ongoing tensions surrounding immigration operations.

72 Drivers Ticketed In 10 Days For Using Shoulders To Beat Traffic, Cook County Sheriffs Office Says

The Cook County Sheriff’s Office ticketed 72 drivers for illegally using expressway shoulders to bypass traffic. Since late June, the office has issued over 900 citations for this offense, emphasizing the dangers associated with such driving behavior. Enhanced patrols, including helicopter surveillance, aim to improve road safety.

Your Ultimate Chicago Halloween Guide 70 Parades, Parties, Markets And Family Events

Chicago kicks off Halloween season with over 70 events for all ages, including parades, bar crawls, and family festivals. Notable highlights include the Arts in the Dark Parade on October 18 and the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade on October 31. Residents can explore diverse activities throughout the city until early November.

National Guard Arrives In Chicago Area Despite Judge Urging Feds To Hold Off

Texas National Guard troops have arrived in the Chicago area to support federal agents, despite opposition from local officials. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker criticized the federal deployment as an "invasion" and stated that local leaders did not consent to the presence of outside military forces. A federal judge has yet to rule on a lawsuit seeking to block the deployment.

When Will ICE Leave Chicago? No End Date For Operation Midway Blitz, Field Director Says

ICE's Chicago field director, Russell Hott, confirmed that Operation Midway Blitz will continue indefinitely, with over 1,000 arrests made so far. Despite criticism over the use of force and detaining U.S. citizens, Hott insists that the operation focuses on targeted enforcement. Local officials and community members have expressed growing concern over the tactics employed during the raids.

Palmer Square Park Named Chicago Park Districts First Arboretum

Palmer Square Park has become the Northwest Side's first arboretum, recognized by the Morton Arboretum's ArbNet Accreditation Program. The park features over 200 trees, including 28 distinct species, surpassing the 25-species requirement for accreditation. This designation enhances local tree preservation and educational opportunities for the community.

Parsons Chicken Fish Closing Andersonville Location This Month After Ownership Sells The Business

Parson’s Chicken & Fish will close its Andersonville location on October 19 after over four years in the neighborhood. The closure is due to the lease expiring, and the restaurant group Land and Sea Dept. has sold the business, although details about the buyer remain undisclosed. Other locations in Logan Square and Lincoln Park will continue to operate.

Lakeviews New Affordable Housing Development Offers Independence For Residents With Disabilities

Lakeview Landing, a new affordable housing development for people with disabilities, has opened in Lakeview, featuring 37 accessible apartments. Funded with $5.8 million from the city and designed for independent living, the project aligns with Mayor Brandon Johnson’s initiative to expand affordable housing citywide.

Bronzevilles Chicago Prairie Tennis Club Celebrates Revamped Courts

The Chicago Prairie Tennis Club celebrated its newly resurfaced courts with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the completion of a $50,000 fundraising campaign. Club President Jimmie Johnson emphasized the club's commitment to serving the community for another 113 years. Local officials praised the club's role in fostering the next generation of Black tennis players.